SPECULATION MOUNTS OVER ALDI DEVELOPMENT
Rumours abound this week in Mitchelstown as to the future of the Aldi Distribution Centre currently under construction outside the town.
Unconfirmed reports claim that the construction at the unfinished distribution centre will stop over the coming weeks. The reason for this work stoppage is unclear but speculation is rife that the project is about to be put on hold for up to four years.
More unconfirmed reports contend that the decision to stop work in Mitchelstown is, in fact, politically motivated, and linked to planning permission at other Aldi sites currently being held up or, indeed, refused around the country.
The Avondhu put these concerns to Aldi who, while not confirming or denying the claims, said in reply: “Construction is continuing on site. Regarding your additional questions Aldi has no further comment to make.”
Construction at the Limerick Road site began early in 2009 with the promise of well over 100 jobs for the region when the centre was completed. The state of the art distribution centre was planned to be the second largest Aldi facility in Ireland and there are approximately 250 employed in its construction.
When completed the €100 million centre will supply Aldi stores in Cork, Tipperary, Waterford, Limerick and Kerry.
Many local businesses in Mitchelstown are concerned at the prospect of the half finished distribution centre lying idle, “If these rumours are true then we are going to be stuck with another empty building which will become an eyesore. I hope that Aldi will let the community know what exactly is going on,” Pat O’Callaghan of O’Callaghan’s Restaurant told The Avondhu.
Published:
Thursday 19th August 6:54pm
